Exton

Tannr is finishing up his supper and visiting with Raina when he sees Tori come into the tavern from the back. She heads straight to the bar, sits down without looking around and orders a drink from Monty. Tannr can tell she is on edge, worry creasing her brow and making her back straight and tight. He hesitates for a few seconds, Maybe now isnt a good time to talk to her, she looks stressed or upset...

He watches as she tosses back a drink and hands Monty the empty glass. Whats the worst she can do? Tell you to get lost... that I really am just another fuck up....

“Excuse me, sister...” he says to Raina as he stands and walks to the bar.

He approaches slowly, still worried about what kind of reception he will receive. When he is a foot or so behind her, he says quietly, “Hey Red. Its just me...” He sees her shoulders relax and he reaches out and strokes them, stepping closer.

“You all right? You seem pretty tense...”

Tori almost purrs, the rubbing on her shoulders along with the stiff drink helping her to relax a bit. “I'm better now...”

“Maybe this will help...” and Tannr slips the necklace out of his pocket and fastens it around Tori's neck. The small black snake stands out in sharp relief against her pale skin.

Tori is about to say something smart, Are we going steady now?, is on the tip of her tongue until she looks down and sees the ebony pendant, emeralds for eyes seemingly looking at her.

She gasps softly, “Oohh, Tannr, its gorgeous. I love it... You didnt have to get me anything... we havent known each other very long...”

Tannr smiles, “I know. But since I cant be around to tell you 24/7 this should remind you that I think you are beautiful, inside and out, no matter what form you take...”

She returns the smile and Tannr reaches out and strokes a cheek with the back of his hand. “Theres that smile...”

“Sit. Please. And talk to me. I could use a little distraction from whats going round and round in my head.” Tori gestures to the stool next to her.

Tannr moves towards it but before he can sit Tori grabs it and pulls it closer to her. He grins at her as he sits and reaches for her hand. “Okay Red, tell me whats going on...”